Robert (Bob) Chapman was born in Bondi, NSW, 100 years ago.
Bob served in the Australian Army in the Second World War and was a signalman with 8th Division.
He was based in Singapore and became a prisoner of war (POW) when the island fell to the Japanese. Bob spent two and a half years with his younger brother, Jack, in a POW camp in Kawasaki, Japan.
While in the camp, Bob and the other POWs were building ships and they were still in Japan when the bomb was dropped over Hiroshima. He says the camaraderie was the only thing that kept them going and Bob valued the many long-term friendships.
After the war, Bob worked in the accounts department of War Service Homes for more than 30 years.
Bob credits his long life to staying fit and healthy, and having two wonderful women in his life.
Happy birthday Bob and thank you for your service. #TYFYS#OurVeterans
Courtesy of Darren Chester, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs.
